Located where the Nissan River flows into the Kattegat Strait, Halmstad is a historic port town on Sweden’s west coast that was under Danish rule until the 17th century. It’s a popular summer destination due to its sandy beaches, mild climate and picturesque parks and is notable as the base of a group of avant-garde Swedish artists.
Things to do in Halmstad
Jump aboard a boat to navigate the scenic Nissan River, which marks the boundary between Halmstad’s old town and its modern residential area. There are several picturesque parks to visit along the east bank, including Picasso Park with its eight-metre-high statue of the artist, while trendy bars and restaurants line the other side.
If you’re an art enthusiast, don’t miss a visit to the Mjellby Art Museum, which celebrates the Halmstad Group of cubist and surrealist artists who were active in the region during the 1920s and 1930s. It hosts changing exhibitions featuring the works of Erik Olson, Sven Jonson and Waldemar Lorentzon, as well as temporary shows highlighting contemporary Swedish artists.
On the northern outskirts of Halmstad lies Galgberget, a tranquil green space dominated by a 13-metre-high viewing tower that dates back to 1897. After climbing to the top of this castle-like structure, explore the historic buildings clustered in the open-air museum of Hallandsgården. It features a traditional farmhouse, a summer cottage and a windmill, as well as an authentic Swedish sauna, a children’s playground and friendly farmyard animals.
Getting around Halmstad
Halmstad is just over 1.5 hours’ drive from Gothenburg and Gothenburg-Landvetter Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect the Halmstad railway station to cities throughout Sweden while buses travel within Halmstad. The centre of Halmstad is compact enough to explore on foot.